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Join or Renew Today and Save!
Take advantage of SoMLA’s Early Bird Membership Rates through October 31, 2026! Basic memberships are just $30 annually, with other membership options available for only $15 annually. Beginning November 1, 2026, annual rates will increase to $40 for Basic Memberships and $20 for other membership types. Join or renew today to lock in the Early Bird rate! Explore SoMLA’s membership options HERE. |
Two Incredible Keynote Speakers. One Powerful Conference.
The State of Maryland Literacy Association (SoMLA) is thrilled to welcome Jason Reynolds and Patty McGee as keynote speakers for the 2027 SoMLA Annual Conference!
Jason Reynolds, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of the most influential voices in contemporary young people’s literature, has written more than 20 books for children and young adults. His celebrated works include Ghost, Patina, Sunny, and Lu from the bestselling Track series, along with Long Way Down, All American Boys, Look Both Ways, and As Brave as You. A 2024 MacArthur Fellow and former National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Reynolds brings an extraordinary passion for helping young people discover their voices, tell their stories, and build meaningful connections through reading and writing.
Patty McGee is a nationally recognized literacy consultant, speaker, educator, author, and former Milken Educator Award recipient who is passionate about transforming classrooms into spaces where language and learning come alive. Drawing upon decades of experience as a teacher, coach, and advocate for joyful and effective literacy practices, Patty works alongside educators to unlock the potential of every learner through innovative, practical teaching strategies. Her newest book, Not Your Granny’s Grammar, brings a fresh and engaging perspective to grammar instruction and the power of language in the classroom.
Together, Reynolds and McGee will bring two dynamic perspectives to the SoMLA stage--celebrating the power of stories, student voice, language, literacy, and the educators who make it all possible.
SAVE THE DATE
April 7–8, 2027
Join literacy educators from across Maryland and beyond for two days of learning, inspiration, connection, and celebration.
Conference registration coming soon!
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Call for Proposals Open
The State of Maryland Literacy Association (SoMLA) invites educators, literacy leaders, researchers, and other education professionals to submit proposals for the 2027 SoMLA Annual Conference, being held April 7–8, 2027, at the Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel in Towson, Maryland. This year’s conference, themed Growing Literacy, Growing Minds, will feature two strands: Day 1 – Equity & Responsiveness: Supporting ALL Learners Day 2 – State of Maryland Literacy Initiatives In partnership with ILA, MSDE, educational leaders, regional school districts, and vendors, SoMLA will offer professional learning experiences addressing timely and relevant topics in literacy and education. Concurrent sessions will be 50 minutes in length. Share Your Expertise with Maryland Educators!
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The Benefits of Membership
Members of SoMLA enjoy membership benefits such as free webinar and professional development opportunities. Professional development opportunities are advertised in our bi-monthly newsletter. A subscription to our newsletter is included with your membership. With your membership you will also enjoy a reduced rate to our annual conference. Joining SoMLA will also connect you with a local SoMLA chapter where you can connect with educators who are regionally located near you. Won't you consider joining us? Annual membership is $30. |
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